Comparisons between the Chevrolet Corvette and Porsche 911 are nothing new and have been going on for longer than we can remember. The debate always goes something like this - the Corvette is way cheaper and offers far better value for money, but the 911 is the better driver's car and has a nicer interior that helps make up the price difference.

But the 2020 C8 generation Corvette, which now boasts a mid-engine layout, is good enough on paper that the results of previous comparisons are now null. The C8 Corvette's mid-engine layout is the most significant change from one Corvette generation to the next, but is it enough to tip the scales in the battle against the 911 and other European sports cars? General Motors seems to think so.

Speaking with Automotive News, GM President Mark Reuss explained how the switch to a mid-engined layout might finally help Chevy steal customers away from the European brands. Final pricing for the 2020 Corvette hasn't been announced, but Chevy did confirm a starting price of under $60,000 and a 0-60 time of under three seconds with the Z51 package (which should, admittedly, take the price over $60,000). "I think this car is going to change everything. I really do," said Ruess at the reveal for the C8.

Reuss even said that the 911 will be one of the Corvette's biggest competitors. But with a starting price of $92,350, 125 fewer horsepower, and a 0-60 time that is over a second slower, the 911 looks completely outclassed against the Corvette on paper, especially so since the Chevy's value proposition has only gotten stronger with this latest generation.

The C8 will also target heavy hitters like the Acura NSX and Audi R8, both of which can cost three times more than a base Corvette depending on options. "I think [luxury shoppers] will be interested to come and see what it is," Reuss said. "It's a very different car than what it was."

The Corvette has always competed well on price, but the big draw with the C8 is an interior that finally looks up to par with Europe's best. Only time will tell, but this new Corvette looks like GM's best opportunity to make more conquest sales in Europe, especially because the C8 will be offered with right-hand-drive.